Be Prepared – Have a First Aid Kit on Hand
July 10, 2024
It’s the season for adventure in the Upper Peninsula! While you’re out enjoying all the area has to offer — whether you’re biking, hiking, running along the beach or traversing the playground — it’s important to be prepared for any situations that might arise.
Basic first aid supplies are helpful to have on hand for cuts and scrapes, burns, and other minor injuries. We recommend always having a first aid kit at home and in your vehicle, and a to-go bag for taking along on adventures. You can purchase pre-assembled kits — some are even tailored to specific activities — or build your own.
A well-stocked first aid kit may include:
- Adhesive bandages, assorted sizes
- Antibiotic ointment
- Saline wash or other wound rinse
- Gauze pads or roller gauze
- Adhesive tape
- Medical scissors
- Tweezers
- Alcohol wipes
- Instant ice pack
- Sterile gloves
“A good first aid kit includes supplies for any type of situation you may find yourself in,” said Laura Ruble, MD, UP Health System – Marquette emergency medicine physician. “Preparedness is key in reducing the likelihood of a small injury becoming a larger problem. These items can help you safely treat minor wounds and get back to enjoying your day.”
Other preparedness items to consider carrying along on your summer adventures may include medicine (aspirin, non-aspirin pain reliever, allergy relief, antacid, antidiarrheal, aloe vera gel), sunscreen, bug spray, emergency space blanket, poncho, waterproof matches, and a flashlight. Emergency phone numbers — including contact information for your family physician, pediatrician, local emergency, on-call lines, and Poison Control — are also great to write down and have on hand.
Whether you purchase a pre-made kit or assemble one yourself, check it often to make sure it’s properly stocked and replace expired or out-of-date contents. Make sure you, or anyone else who will have access to it, know how to properly use each item. The American Red Cross offers several helpful resources, including first aid, CPR and AED training.
Health issues don’t take nights and weekends off. Our quality care teams are staffed 24/7 with emergency physicians, nurses and staff trained to provide emergency care when you need it. For more information visit https://www.uphealthsystem.com/get-care-now.
For more serious injuries, call 9-1-1 if you or a loved one is experiencing a medical emergency.